The Sweetest Things

Valentine's Day is this weekend, and it has made me think about the sweetest things that I have ever been given or experienced.  This past year has definitely changed my perspective on this holiday, so when I think about what has been so special in my life, the little things are what come to mind.  When I think about who has loved me better than anyone else in my life, my kiddos are the obvious answer.

So here are the sweetest things I have ever received from my loves:

A jam session in the car with Xavier.  Just a few weeks ago, on our way home one Sunday night, my JAM Jordan Feliz, The River came on the radio.  I cranked it up and belted it out.  Instead of being mortified, Xavier added some dashboard percussion.  And he didn't end it after that song.  In fact, we had a little worship service all the way home.  It meant so much to me that he would connect with me like that.  I am truly blessed.

A compliment from Emma Gracie.  Also not too long ago, I was still in my jammies one morning, and Emma told me I was "so pretty."  I hadn't even brushed my hair or my teeth yet that day.  And she is literally my physical clone - and she is very aware of this.  So, by her complimenting me, that inadvertently means that she was having self-confidence that day, as well.  The best compliment she can give me is to love herself.  I am very proud of the lovely young lady she is growing to be.

A cuddle with Johnny Honny.  These happen often, and they are always the exact thing I need.  I don't know how he does it, but his hugs and cuddles actually find a way to wrap themselves around my heart.  I literally feel it within my chest when he wraps his little arms around me.  It has always been this way, and I pray it never, ever changes.  Everyone should be as lucky as I am to be hugged from the inside out.  God knew exactly what I needed when he sent this dear boy to be part of my family, and I am so very grateful.

As Valentine's Day approaches, I hope each of you are able to reflect on what you have in your life and realize that the love you have in your life may be so much more important than any flowers or candy or jewelry or cards or even fancy dinners.  And this love may show itself on some random Tuesday, instead of some commercialized date on the calendar.  I hope you all truly feel loved this year.